Slyde
Back Again EP
(Self-Release)
Canadian bands have a rich prog tradition, and it’s always nice to hear bands recognize the past while blazing new trails forward. Such is the case with Ottawa-based group Slyde on their Back Again EP. The group’s sound is playful, melodic, and joyous; it’s also quite multifaceted. Think Coheed and Cambria with doses of Haken, 80s-era Rush (hence the Canuck love), some 90s punk rock, and chiptune. It’s forceful and gets ever-so-close to metallic influences (see “Fading” and “Divide”), but Slyde slides much closer to the rock side of the prog spectrum.
What’s most notable on these four tunes is the sheer melodic fortitude and oomph the band display. Vocalist Nathan Da Silva’s tenor may be off-putting to those who aren’t accustomed to prog, but he fits in perfectly, offering up a tone that is somewhere between Geddy Lee and Claudio Sanchez, interestingly enough. Backing harmonies playfully weave in and out, and that mindset is mirrored in the music. While so many modern prog bands are focused on creating dense and dark moods, Slyde is hear to pack in the hummable melodies, guitar licks, and synth leads. Flashy parts come and go, but the driving progressive punk rock is the carriage the band rode in on. Of course, things then slow down for the closing title track, a triumphant little ditty.
Overall, Slyde truly offer up something unique, fun, and very promising. Here’s hoping the group’s next record slides into the world rather quickly.
